Questions for MP at Wadebirdge School
North Cornwall’s MP, Dan Rogerson, this week took questions from students at Wadebridge School as part of ‘Democracy Week’. Mr Rogerson was joined by County Councillor Colin Brewer, a member of the Sixth Form, a representative of Surfers Against Sewage and one of Cornwall’s MYPs (Member of Youth Parliament).
The panel debated issues from gun crime to school uniform, stopping via buses in North Cornwall and the age at which young people should be able to vote.
Democracy Week is run by the Local Government Association and aims to engage young people with their locally elected representatives.
Research for the Local Government Association by Ipsos MORI shows that just a quarter of 11-16 year olds believe that their local councillor is the best person to approach in order to change something in their community. And when asked who they respect most outside their family, only 1% chose politicians. The same number chose their dog!
Commenting, Mr Rogerson said:
“It’s been a pleasure to talk to so many interested and engaging young people here at Wadebridge School. I’m glad that the LGA is highlighting the important role of local councillors in our communities.
“Of course, the future of local government is something of a hot issue here in Cornwall at the moment, so I hope that debate has in itself shown how much Councils can influence people’s everyday lives.
“The young people both in the audience and on the panel were clearly engaged with a whole range of political issues. It’s our responsibility as local representatives to make sure they do not become disengaged between now and the time when they’re entitled to vote. That’s why I argued strongly for the voting age to be lowered to 16, so the democratic system involves people at the moment they’re interested, and keeps them a part of the process throughout their lives.”
